Submissions are Closed for Spotlight Dorado 2023!

Our judges are carefully reviewing every submissions and selecting finalists who will move one step closer to seeing their stories come to life on screen. Stay tuned to see whose story will have a Hollywood ending this year!

The Program

Spotlight Dorado was created to empower and amplify aspiring Latino voices across different industries, starting off with film. We’re not just here to open doors, but to champion the creativity, talent, and determination of Latino creators across the country.

How It Works

1

Who can participate:

The contest is open to all U.S.-based Latino writers, directors and producers,
including film school students, self-taught and independent filmmakers, and DACA recipients.

See the FAQ

2

Entering is Easy:

Pitch your screenplay and submit your materials using our entry form. 

Submit Your Script

3

The Process:

All submissions are judged by a panel of industry insiders and experts. Ten semifinalists will be contacted for interviews and thereafter 3 finalists will be selected. Each finalist will be given a budget to produce their short film. Three films will be submitted to a popular vote to determine the winner. 

See the Rules

Meet the Mentors

Spotlight Dorado finalists will receive guidance and mentorship from some of the most recognized Latinos in the film industry as they bring their vision to life.

Headshot of Anthony Ramos

Anthony Ramos

Actor/Recording Artist

Headshot of Gloria Calderón Kellet

Gloria Calderón Kellet

Producer/Director/Actress

Headshot of Al Madrigal

Al Madrigal

Actor/Writer/Producer

Headshot Danay Garcia

Danay Garcia

Actress

Headshot of Carlos Lopez Estrada

Carlos López Estrada

Director

nancy

Nancy Mejía

Writer/Director

A screenshot of three filmmakers watching the surprise reveal that they were selected as finalists for the Spotlight Dorado 2022 film contest.

Spotlight on 2022

The inaugural year of Spotlight Dorado was a blockbuster success, with hundreds of talented Latino storytellers around the country submitting their short film scripts to the contest. Go behind the spotlight with last year’s finalists!